Transformers explode under downtown St. Louis

Jun. 25, 2013
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by Michael Winter, USA TODAY

by Michael Winter, USA TODAY

Several electrical transformers exploded under a downtown St. Louis street during evening rush hour Tuesday, causing a fire that sent smoke billowing from manholes but apparently causing no injuries, authorities said.

Firefighters used water and foam to extinguish the blaze, which began about 5 p.m. CT (6 p.m. ET) and was still smoldering 90 minutes later, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

The explosions and fire knocked out power to the 36-story U.S. Bank building, on 7th Street, which was evacuated, Fire Capt. Dan Sutter told KSDK-TV. Initial reports indicated some people might have been trapped in elevators but none were.